I have always conducted myself with integrity: Jayasuriya
What's the story
Former Sri Lanka cricketer Sanath Jayasuriya, who was charged on Friday, with two counts of breaching the ICC Anti-Corruption Code, stated that he has always conducted himself with 'integrity and transparency'.
The ex-Sri Lanka captain was given a 14-day time to respond by the ICC.
However, Jayasuriya refused to comment on the ongoing anti-corruption probe.
Here's more.
Statement
Jayasuriya issues a statement
Jayasuriya explained why he didn't make no comment regarding the charges against him.
"I am initially required to submit my response within 14 days. I am under strict legal advise that no comment is to be made in respect of the above charges as such a course would offend the ICC Rules," Jayasuriya said in a statement.
Comments
Jayasuriya says he has conducted himself with integrity
The Lankan cleared the air on the charges before stating he has conducted himself with integrity.
"I am under advise to state that the above charges do not contain any allegations pertaining to match fixing, pitch fixing or any other similar corrupt activity. I have always conducted myself with integrity and transparency with matters concerning the sport and I will continue to do so."
Charges
Jayasuriya charged with two counts of failing to co-operate
The 49-year-old former Lankan cricketer has been accused of failing to co-operate with the governing body (ACU) regarding an investigation.
Not just that, the all-rounder has also been charged with obstructing the investigation by 'concealing, tampering with or destroying evidence'.
He has been found guilty in relation to Article 2.4.6 and Article 2.4.7.
Information
ICC's ACU currently investigating sting operation by Al Jazeera
The ICC's ACU is currently investigating a sting operation which was carried on by Al Jazeera television, earlier this year. The documentary revealed match-fixers rigging Test matches between Sri Lanka and India in July in 2017 and then Sri Lanka versus Australia in August 2016.
Reasons
Why is Jayasuriya under the scanner?
According to a report by ESPN, Lanka's ODI series against Zimbabwe in 2017, saw the hosts lose at home. The series is under ICC's scanner.
Back then, Jayasuriya was into his second term as chairman of selectors.
Further, a report in PTI states that, a source commented on Jayasuriya 'trying to block' an ICC probe which started in the year 2015.